Italy excited to bring their 'hunger' to the Longines League of Nations™ in 2025

The 2025 series of the Longines League of Nations™ will once again showcase the top 10 ranked nations as they compete in one of the most prestigious team Jumping events in equestrian sport. As we look towards the first leg in Abu Dhabi (UAE) from 11-15 February 2025, we will count down the weeks by taking a look at each of the qualified nations.  First up, Italy.

Nine nations have retained their spots from the previous season: Ireland, France, USA, Great Britain, Belgium, Switzerland, Netherlands, Sweden, and reigning champions Germany, who secured their position by triumphing at the 2024 Final in Barcelona, Spain. However, the standout news is the inclusion of Italy, claiming the 10th and final qualification spot, and replacing Brazil in the elite lineup. This marks a significant milestone for Italy’s equestrian community, reigniting enthusiasm and patriotism.

A Boost for Italian Equestrianism

Marco Di Paola, President of the Italian Equestrian Sports Federation (FISE), shared the nation’s pride and delight at this achievement, while highlighting the team support pivotal to this first step:

"We extend our gratitude to our athletes, their horses, the supportive owners, and the national team coach for this prestigious accomplishment. We have returned to the top of the sport, and equestrian fans will have the chance to cheer on the Italian national team in the most prestigious events of the 2025 international Jumping season."

Italy’s participation in the Longines League of Nations™ is expected to inspire a new wave of interest in equestrian sport.  Jumping holds a rich tradition in Italy, boasting numerous internationally recognised athletes, from 1960 Rome Olympics gold medallist Raimondo D'Inzeo, to current international stars such as Emanuele Camilli and Lorenzo De Luca, who contributed 2,051 and 2,050 points respectively to Italy’s success for this 2025 qualification.  The country is home to prestigious venues such as the Hippodrome de San Siro, hosts of the FEI Jumping European Championship 2023.

Italian Passion for Longines League of Nations™ 2025 Vision

As Italy makes it's series debut, they bring more than just technical skill. "What Italy will definitely bring to the field will be its ‘hunger’ to do well, the grit to always give its best, and the team spirit that characterises the team," said Di Paola. "We’ll also bring fun, joy, and happiness to the series."

As part of the ten nations, the “azzurri” will have the chance to compare themselves with the best teams in the world, and FISE believes that this opportunity will excite the many Jumping fans in Italy. Of course, high performance sport of this calibre also presents national federations with the opportunity to get new athletes interested in equestrian sports, increasing further chances of high-level competitive spirit and support.

The Longines League of Nations™ 2025 season featuring four qualifying legs and a Final kicks off in Abu Dhabi on 11 February 2025, with only the top eight teams making it through to the Final in Barcelona in October.